Zambia Strengthens Tourism Sector through IDC Collaboration
The Minister of Tourism, Honourable Rodney Sikumba, M.P., held a high-level meeting with Mr. Cornwell Muleya, Chief Executive Officer of the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC), to explore strategic partnerships aimed at boosting Zambia’s tourism sector.
The meeting, which took place at the Ministry of Tourism, was attended by senior government officials, including Permanent Secretary Mr. Evans Muhanga, representatives from the Zambia Tourism Agency (ZTA) and the National Heritage Conservation Commission (NHCC).
IDC officials joining Mr. Muleya included Chief Investments Officer Mr. Mainga Mukando, Chief Portfolio Officer Mr. Siakakaye Siameja, and other senior management personnel.
Discussions focused on identifying investment opportunities to accelerate tourism growth, including the development of large-scale infrastructure, modernisation of existing tourism facilities, and initiatives to enhance heritage conservation.
Participants emphasised aligning tourism investments with the Government’s broader economic agenda under the Eighth National Development Plan (8NDP), which positions tourism as a key driver of economic diversification, job creation, and sustainable growth.
Minister Sikumba reaffirmed Government’s commitment to forging strong partnerships with both the private sector and state-owned enterprises to unlock Zambia’s tourism potential.
Mr. Muleya, on behalf of IDC, confirmed the corporation’s readiness to invest in viable tourism projects that will attract more visitors and generate employment and enterprise opportunities for local communities.
The Ministry of Tourism described the engagement as a significant step towards creating impactful programmes that preserve Zambia’s cultural and natural heritage while elevating tourism as a cornerstone of national development.
